Tamiya 61055 - 1/48 Douglas F4D-1 Skyray WWII  [61055]

Concerning the Douglas F4D-1 Skyray

Towards the finish of World War II, numerous information about advanced aeronautical technology had been captured in Germany by the U.S. Forces. One ended up being an analysis of this studies completed by Dr. Alexander Lippisch on deltawinged aircraft. Based upon the information and knowledge, the Douglas firm developed the F4D Skyray, the only operational interceptor with delta wings within the U.S. Navy.
Starting the look in 1947, Douglas was granted an agreement for the construction and evaluation of two prototypes in December 1948. The initial model took off on its maiden flight in January 1951. The next prototype flew fleetingly thereafter, and airframe set two new world documents, absolute speed record of 1,211km/h and 100km shut program record of 1,171km/h, in October 1953. Having many improvements and improvements, the initial production F4D-1 made its maiden flight in June 1954 and joined squadron service in April 1956. The distinctive 50 level sweptback wings with circular guidelines were built with industry leading slats and trailing advantage elevons. Some trimmers had been installed in the inboard trailing edges associated with the wings. The exterior portions of wings could be folded upwards by oil force for carrier stowage.

Although the Skyray never saw any combat, it proved its high capability as an interceptor with numerous globe documents and scramble actions in Taiwan in a reaction to crises in belated 1950's.